Ina Garten Linguine with Shrimp Scampi Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dinner, Ina Garten’s Linguine with Shrimp Scampi is a perfect choice. This dish combines tender shrimp, golden garlic, fresh lemon juice, and herbs tossed with hot linguine for a quick, restaurant-quality meal right at home.

What Is Ina Garten’s Linguine with Shrimp Scampi?

It’s a classic Italian-American pasta dish where shrimp are sautéed in garlic, butter, olive oil, white wine, and lemon, then tossed with cooked linguine and fresh parsley. Ina’s version keeps it light, bright, and flavorful—ideal for a weeknight meal or elegant dinner party.

Other Popular Ina Garten Recipes

• Barefoot Contessa Cream of Fresh Tomato Soup
• Barefoot Contessa Baked Shrimp Scampi
• Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese Croutons
• Ina Garten’s Tomato Orzo Soup
• Barefoot Contessa Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Shrimp Scampi Linguine

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
• Elegant but approachable – Great for entertaining
• Balanced flavors – Garlic, lemon, and wine enhance the shrimp
• Light but satisfying – Perfect year-round
• One-pan simplicity – Minimal cleanup
• Pairs with many sides – Versatile main course
• Proven Barefoot Contessa flavor – Always reliable

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Linguine with Shrimp Scampi

• Kosher salt
• ¾ pound linguine pasta
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2½ tablespoons good olive oil
• 1½ tablespoons minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail-on)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ⅓ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Optional: ¼ cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Linguine with Shrimp Scampi

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant—do not brown.

Add the shrimp, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, turning once, until shrimp are just pink and cooked through.

Step 3: Deglaze and Add Lemon

Add the lemon juice and wine (if using) to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta

Add the drained linguine and parsley to the skillet. Toss well to coat the pasta in the sauce. If it seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and extra parsley. Optionally, drizzle with a touch more olive oil or top with grated parmesan (non-traditional, but delicious).

What to Serve With Shrimp Scampi Linguine

• Garlic bread or focaccia – For soaking up sauce
• Arugula or Caesar salad – Crisp, refreshing contrast
• Steamed or roasted asparagus – Classic side pairing
• White wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) – Complements the dish
• Roasted cherry tomatoes – Adds sweetness and depth
• Grilled zucchini or squash – Light and seasonal
• Lemon wedges – Enhance the citrus brightness

Expert Tips for Mastering the Recipe

• Use fresh lemon juice – Bottled juice dulls the flavor
• Don’t overcook the shrimp – They turn rubbery quickly
• Salt your pasta water generously – It seasons the whole dish
• Use tail-on shrimp for presentation – Or tail-off for easier eating
• Reserve pasta water before draining – It’s great for adjusting sauce texture
• Cook pasta and shrimp simultaneously – For best timing
• Add a knob of butter at the end – For a glossy finish

Variations of the Recipe

• Add halved cherry tomatoes or spinach – For more color and nutrition
• Use angel hair or fettuccine – If linguine isn’t available
• Toss in a few capers or olives – For a briny contrast
• Add grated lemon zest – For more citrus aroma
• Include a splash of cream – For a silky, rich twist
• Swap shrimp for scallops or chicken – Equally delicious
• Make it spicy – With extra chili flakes or diced fresh chili

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container – Keeps for up to 2 days
• Reheat gently on stovetop – Add a splash of water or broth
• Avoid microwaving shrimp too long – It can overcook easily
• Do not freeze – Pasta and shrimp change texture
• Store pasta and shrimp together – For even reheating
• Add fresh parsley and lemon juice after reheating – To revive flavor
• Use leftovers in salad – Serve cold with arugula and vinaigrette

How Do I Reuse Leftover Shrimp Scampi Pasta?

• Toss into a cold pasta salad – With veggies and lemon vinaigrette
• Stuff into roasted bell peppers – For a quick meal
• Add to a frittata – Chopped shrimp and pasta in eggs
• Make a seafood bake – Top with breadcrumbs and bake
• Serve with soup – Like a light broth or chowder
• Reheat and top with extra herbs – Revives freshness
• Pair with grilled vegetables – For a light lunch

Nutritional Value (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Sugar: 3g

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s shrimp scampi ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients (like deveining shrimp and chopping herbs) in advance to save time.

What kind of shrimp works best for this recipe?

Use large or jumbo raw shrimp, peeled and deveined. Tail-on looks elegant, but tail-off is easier to eat.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?

Yes, just thaw them completely in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking, and pat them dry.

How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque—usually about 2–3 minutes per side. Overcooking is the most common mistake.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s Linguine with Shrimp Scampi is everything you want in a quick yet elegant dinner—fresh, light, and loaded with flavor. Whether for a casual night in or a special occasion, this dish brings together simple ingredients in a way only Ina can—effortless, refined, and utterly delicious.

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